The Kenyan government has recently announced plans to fast-track the process of granting dual citizenship to Kenyans living abroad. This move, as outlined by Immigration Principal Secretary Julius Bitok, aims to enable Kenyans to reclaim their identity and contribute to the country’s development. By streamlining the application process, the government seeks to strengthen the bonds between the diaspora and their homeland while encouraging investment and participation in national growth.
Reclaiming Identity and Contributing to Development
According to PS Bitok, the introduction of this policy will facilitate the use of constitutional provisions that recognize dual nationality, a move that is long-awaited by many Kenyans abroad. “By fast-tracking dual citizenship applications, we are enabling Kenyans abroad to reclaim their identity and contribute to the economic development of our nation,” Bitok said during the recent International Migrants Day walk at the COMESA grounds. He emphasized that this policy would encourage Kenyans who migrated and acquired other nationalities to invest more in their country of birth, fostering a deeper connection to their roots.
The Principal Secretary explained that many Kenyans living abroad lost their citizenship before the 2010 Constitution, which allowed for dual nationality. The previous requirement for individuals to renounce their Kenyan citizenship to acquire other nationalities created a barrier for those wishing to remain connected to their homeland. By allowing dual citizenship, the government hopes to rectify this issue, enabling citizens to maintain their Kenyan identity while enjoying the benefits of another nationality.
Encouraging Investment and Remittances
The fast-tracking of dual citizenship applications is expected to encourage greater investment in Kenya from the diaspora. With an estimated three million Kenyans living abroad, and many holding dual citizenship, the potential for increased remittances and economic contributions is significant. The policy aims to create a conducive environment for Kenyans to invest in property, businesses, and development projects back home. This, in turn, is expected to boost the country’s economy by harnessing the skills, expertise, and capital of the diaspora.
“Regaining Kenyan citizenship is not just about reclaiming an identity; it’s also about empowering our citizens to participate in the development of our country,” Bitok noted. “By allowing Kenyans to maintain their dual citizenship, we are opening up opportunities for them to bring back valuable knowledge and experience from their time abroad. This will play a crucial role in driving innovation and economic growth.”
The government has made it easier for Kenyans abroad to apply for dual citizenship through online platforms such as eCitizen and the Directorate of Immigration website. Applicants are required to provide various documentation, including proof of Kenyan origin and details about their acquired nationality. The online application process is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, allowing for quicker processing times and reducing bureaucratic delays.
Attracting Investments and High-Net-Worth Individuals
The government’s push for dual citizenship also aims to attract high-net-worth individuals and investors from the diaspora. PS Bitok highlighted the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system as part of the government’s strategy to simplify travel for Kenyans living abroad and to encourage investment. The eTA system will allow for faster entry into the country, streamlined visa processing, and easier access to business and investment opportunities in Kenya. This move is seen as a way to not only enhance tourism but also to attract investments in real estate, technology, and other sectors.
By facilitating the movement of Kenyans abroad and connecting them with opportunities back home, the government hopes to leverage the diaspora’s role as a bridge between cultures and economies. This new dual citizenship policy is part of a broader strategy to harness the full potential of the Kenyan diaspora, turning it into a driving force for national development.
In conclusion, the fast-tracking of dual citizenship is a progressive step by the Kenyan government to reclaim the country’s identity and foster economic growth. By recognizing dual nationality, the government is empowering Kenyans abroad to actively contribute to the development of their homeland, bringing with them valuable experiences and networks. This initiative not only strengthens the bond between the diaspora and Kenya but also sets the stage for greater investment and involvement from Kenyans worldwide in the future prosperity of the nation.
